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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic DT department and inspire future architects, engineers, and designers.
- Company: Join a nationally recognised secondary school in Barnet with outstanding Ofsted ratings.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and early career security for September 2026.
- Why this job: Shape the future of design education in a creative and well-resourced environment.
- Qualifications: QTS/QTLS and a degree in Design & Technology required.
- Other info: Enjoy autonomy in leadership and access to world-class facilities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an innovative maker and leader ready to spearhead a premier DT department? Protocol Education is proud to be partnering with a nationally recognized, ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted-rated secondary school in Barnet. We are seeking a dynamic and ambitious Head of Design & Technology for a full-time, permanent position commencing in September 2026. This is a high-profile leadership role within a school that prides itself on blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge modern engineering.
The School & Department Located in the heart of Barnet, this school is a center of academic and creative excellence where practical subjects are highly valued and exceptionally well-resourced.
- World-Class Facilities: The DT department features modern workshops, CAD/CAM suites (including 3D printers and laser cutters), and specialized studios for Product Design and Textiles.
- Top-Tier Performance: Design & Technology is a popular and high-achieving subject at both GCSE and A-Level, with a strong emphasis on high-quality outcomes and innovation.
- Leadership Autonomy: You will work with a Senior Leadership Team that actively invests in the creative arts and technologies, providing the resources needed to keep the department at the forefront of the field.
The Role As the Head of DT, you will have the creative freedom to shape the department’s vision. You will lead a team of talented teachers and technicians to inspire the next generation of architects, engineers, and designers.
- Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Vision: Lead the design and delivery of a progressive curriculum across KS3, KS4, and KS5, covering a range of disciplines such as Product Design and Engineering.
- Departmental Growth: Manage and mentor a team of specialists, fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and continuous professional development.
- Industry Integration: Develop links with local industry and universities to provide students with "real-world" design challenges and career pathways.
- Resource Management: Oversee the department budget and ensure that all equipment and health and safety protocols meet the highest standards.
Who We Are Looking For? We want a leader who is as passionate about the design process as they are about student achievement.
- Qualifications and Essential Criteria
- Qualifications: QTS / QTLS and a degree in a Design & Technology related field.
- Safety: Up-to-date DATA (Design & Technology Association) safety accreditation is essential.
- Leadership: Proven experience in a middle-management role or a "Lead Teacher" position with a track record of driving results.
- Technical Skill: Proficiency in CAD/CAM software and a broad range of workshop skills (wood, metal, plastics).
The Protocol Education Advantage
- Market-Leading Pay: Salary paid to scale (Inner/Outer London) plus a significant TLR 1 or 2.
- Early Career Security: Secure your permanent leadership post for September 2026 well in advance of the resignation deadlines.
- Dedicated Consultant: A bespoke service to help you navigate the interview process for this prestigious Barnet school.
Apply Today Join a school where your creativity will be celebrated and your leadership will shape the future of design education. To apply: Please submit your CV via this portal. For a confidential discussion about this Head of DT vacancy, contact the Protocol Education Secondary Team today. Protocol Education is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We are committed to the safeguarding of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details.
Head of DT employer: Protocol Education Ltd
Contact Detail:
Protocol Education Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of DT
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who are already in leadership roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether at a job fair or an informal coffee, make sure to share your vision for the DT department. Let them see your enthusiasm for shaping the future of design education.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview like it’s the final project of your degree! Research the school’s values and recent achievements, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your answers to show you’re the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’ve got dedicated consultants ready to help you navigate the process and ace that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of DT
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for Design & Technology shine through in your application. We want to see how passionate you are about inspiring the next generation of architects and engineers!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of DT role. Highlight your leadership experience and any innovative projects you've led – we love creativity!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and vision for the department.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education Ltd
✨Know Your Craft
As a Head of Design & Technology, you need to showcase your passion for the subject. Brush up on the latest trends in design and technology, and be ready to discuss how you can integrate them into the curriculum. Highlight your technical skills, especially in CAD/CAM software, and be prepared to share examples of how you've used these tools in past projects.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
This role requires strong leadership skills, so come prepared with specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Discuss your approach to mentoring teachers and fostering a culture of excellence. Be ready to explain how you’ve driven results in previous roles and how you plan to do the same in this position.
✨Connect with the Community
Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of industry links. Prepare to discuss how you would develop partnerships with local businesses and universities to provide students with real-world challenges. This shows that you’re not just focused on the classroom but also on preparing students for their future careers.
✨Vision for the Future
Articulate a clear vision for the DT department. Think about how you would lead the design and delivery of a progressive curriculum across all key stages. Be ready to discuss innovative ideas you have for departmental growth and how you would ensure that the resources are effectively managed to meet high standards.
